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Living Free - September 21, 2011

"You call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially." 1 Peter 1:17 NIV

Thoughts for Today

God's Word offers hope to sons and daughters who have been handed down dysfunctional pain. First, God is fair. He "judges each man's work impartially." Children raised by an abusive or neglectful father often have an incorrect view of God, imagining Him to be like their earthly father. The good news is our heavenly Father is perfect and fair.

However, God's impartiality does not take away our personal responsibility. Although genetic inheritance and social surroundings may influence us, they do not eliminate our responsibility to God. We have the freedom; and responsibility; to make our own choices. We are not locked into our earthly father's way of life. Even if we have been raised by a dysfunctional or abusive earthly father, we can choose to follow our heavenly Father and serve Him.

Consider this …

No matter what your background, God has given you a choice. If you grew up in a dysfunctional home, will you continue that dysfunctional pattern in your life? Or will you choose to break out of that futile lifestyle and build your life on the foundation of God's love and righteousness?

"Choose today whom you will serve. . . . But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 NLT

Prayer

Father, I thank you that you are perfect and fair. And I thank you that you have given me the privelege; and responsibility; to choose how I will live. I choose to follow You. Help me serve you faithfully and make wise choices day by day. In Jesus' name . . .

These thoughts were drawn from …

Understanding the Times and Knowing What to Doby Dr. Jimmy Ray Lee. This book offers biblical strategies for ministry to our family and friends. Contemporary issues and needs faced by society are addressed with biblical principles that are timeless. Ideal for small group leaders and Sunday school teachers who want a better understanding of ministry in an addictive culture.

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